The world seemed to freeze as the dark liquid splashed across Ethan’s pristine white shirt.

“Mr. Blackwood! I’m so sorry!” The waiter’s face drained of all color, his hands trembling. “It was an accident!”

Ethan’s expression tightened. He tried to wipe the deep red stain, but it only spread further.

The event manager rushed over immediately. “Mr. Blackwood, please accept my deepest apologies. Let me take you to the lounge to change.”

Ethan released a slow, irritated breath. He glanced briefly at Isabella and gave a curt nod. “I’ll be back soon.”

Isabella nodded silently, a strange sense of dread coiling in her stomach as she watched him walk away.

“Miss Scott, what a lovely surprise.” A smooth, melodic voice cut through her thoughts.

Isabella turned to see an elegant woman approaching. Her gown shimmered under the lights, flowing with each graceful step.

She offered a polite smile. “Good evening, Mrs. Sterling.” It was Charlotte, wife of Sterling Industries’ CEO.

Charlotte’s red lips curved slightly. “Your designs made quite an impression on me last time.” She tilted her head, studying Isabella with keen interest. “And here we are again. How fortunate.”

Isabella held her gaze, remaining composed. “Thank you, Mrs. Sterling. That’s very kind.”

“There’s a unique boldness in your work—elegant yet fierce,” Charlotte remarked, her eyes thoughtful. “I truly admire designers with such a distinct vision.”

Isabella smiled politely. “Thank you.”

But her mind was elsewhere—on Ethan. Changing a shirt shouldn’t take this long. Yet anxiety prickled under her skin.

“I’m particularly fond of your Decade’s Vow collection,” Charlotte continued. “I would love to discuss your inspiration further, if you have time.”

Isabella nodded gracefully. “Of course, Mrs. Sterling. It would be my pleasure.”

The grand hall glittered under crystal chandeliers. Laughter and soft music floated through the air.

Olivia noticed the tension on Isabella’s face. She took a sip of champagne and grinned. “Is Mr. Blackwood getting lost in there? Should we send a search party?”

Isabella forced a smile. “I’m sure he’s fine. The manager is with him.”

Olivia set down her glass and grabbed Isabella’s hand. “Let’s go check anyway! Maybe he needs help.” Her eyes sparkled with mischief.

Before Isabella could object, Olivia pulled her toward the lounge.

Inside, Ethan had removed his stained shirt, revealing his sculpted torso. He reached for a fresh one hanging nearby.

Suddenly, the door swung open.

Zoe stood at the entrance, feigning surprise. “Mr. Blackwood? What are you doing here?”

Ethan paused, frowning. He recognized her—Zoe from Apex Design Collective.

Zoe covered her mouth dramatically. “Oh! I’m so sorry! I must have the wrong room!”